Some voices are definitely best suited for specific genres, but a voice like Steven Taetz’s can handle it all. Rollicking roots rock, gentle pop ballads, blue-eyed soul, and cool jazz — he approaches it all without flinching, delivering songs with a strong and crystal clear voice that demands the listener’s full attention. Having previously collaborated with Jill Barber, Jenn Grant, Caroline Marie Brooks of Good Lovelies, The Once, and Connie Kaldor, Taetz has crossed paths with every kind of artist and seemingly takes inspiration and delight from everything that catches his ear. His self-titled2013 album is an eclectic mix of unabashedly dramatic and often roots-tinged singer-songwriter fare, but its follow-up, 2018’sDrink You Insaw Taetz shift into full-on crooner mode, with a collection of impeccably performed jazz standards and new compositions. With his new album of contemporary roots love songs from a queer perspective on Late Bloom, Taetz continues to prove that he’s game for anything, provided it gives him a chance to sing his beautiful heart out.

For the full Union Summer lineup click here.